Herbert Kay Ballantyne

Herbert Kay Ballantyne, 74, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather passed away peacefully, July 6, 2007 at Eagle Cliff Manor in Billings, Montana, due to a short battle of cancer. Herb was born September 6, 1932 in Kuroki, North Dakota, to Orlena and Everett Ballantyne. He was one of 9 siblings. He grew up and attended school in Westhope, North Dakota where he graduated and worked on the farms for his brothers, Bud and Pat.

He married the love of his life, Patricia Lee, in Sidney, Montana on July 21, 1954. From this union came their two children, David and Pam. They continued to live in North Dakota, where Herb began his long journey in the oil field.

In 1956 he was drafted into the United States Army and was station in Yokohama, Japan. After coming back to the states, Patti accompanied him to finish the remainder of his duty in Leesville, La. After receiving an Honorable Discharge from the Army, he began working for Cardinal Drilling in which he served 31 years.

With over 50 years in the oil field, Herb established many long-term friendships. Herb became very well respected and admired in this line of work. He was a man of his word, where a handshake meant you better follow through. After finishing with Cardinal, he continued in the oil field as an independent oil producer.

Herb delighted in his family. He loved us all very much. His biggest joy was to have us all together.

Herb is preceded in death by both parents; three brothers, Pat, Donald, and Lyle. Herb is survived by his wife of 52 years, Patti. His son David (Mary) and his daughter Pam (Karson) Kidgell all of Billings, His grandchildren Scott, Blair, Kinsey, Kooper, and Kolbe. His great grandchildren Ryen, Samari, and Blaise. His brothers Russell and Charles; his sisters Bid, Ruth, and Dorothy; numerous nieces and nephews, whom all loved their uncle Herbie!

The family would like to offer a special thanks to the entire staff at Eagle Cliff Manor, Big Sky Hospice, and Bob Struts, who took the time to know the man we all love! Our Precious Papa, everything he did, he did for his family! We love you and will miss you, Papa!

Funeral services for Herb Ballantyne will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, July 12, at Harvest Church in Billings Heights. Cremation will follow. A Graveside burial of cremated remains will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, at Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.